People in Gembrook will have access to a new playspace and skate park thanks to a funding boost from the Federal Government and Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing and Member for La Trobe MP Jason Wood joined community members on 20 August in turning the first sod on the new Gembrook Leisure Park.

The $1.5 million playspace and skate park received $500,000 from the Labor Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund, which supports the creation of community connections, enhanced services, and provides greater opportunities at the local level.

The project was also supported by a $500,000 grant through the Commonwealth Government’s Building Better Regions fund.

Works will include a skate space, exercise station, an open play area with flying fox, a multi-purpose hard court, splash pad and water play area, BBQ shelters and picnic facilities.

Member for La Trobe MP Jason Wood and Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing spoke about the importance of the playspace for residents.

“The Growing Suburbs Fund helps councils build great local facilities for their communities such as town centres, parks, community centres and playgrounds,” Ms Shing said.

“Gembrook Leisure Park is the major youth space for Gembrook and the surrounding area,” Mr Wood said.

“The existing play space and skate facilities need a major upgrade so they can offer valuable unstructured play and sporting opportunities for the community.”

“The upgrade will meet the needs of the growing local community, and provide an important attraction for visitors to the area as Gembrook grows in popularity as a tourist destination.”

Construction is set to commence in August 2019, and is expected to be completed by November 2019.